Aussie Simon McGoldrick Qualifies for Mini Transat
Australian Naval Architect Simon McGoldrick has just qualified for the 2009 Mini Transat. The log of his Pogo 2 'Composite Works' now reads 5000nm after a summer packed with racing and qualification passages in Europe.
'Simon McGoldrick and AUS 587'
Opting for a Mediterranean based campaign, the courses included stopovers at exotic ports in Morocco, Algeria, Italy, Spain and Portugal. The highlight was the gruelling 1600nm Regata Dos Oceanos, which began in Marseille (France) and included passing Gibraltar on route to Lisbon (Portugal). Approaching the notorious Straits in a Westerly gale, under storm sails, while dodging ships rates as the most challenging passage yet for this young sailor.
At the finish in Lisbon, Simon collected his third 2nd Place for the season, proving his consistency and potential for a top result in the next Mini Transat. The boat has now returned to its base at 'Composite Works' in La Ciotat, France, where a host of refinements will be made before training recommences in the New-Year. The shipyard has provided valuable support since the campaign began, although an extra sponsor is being sought for the coming year.
The Mini Transat begins in September 2009, running from La Rochelle, France to Brazil via Madeira. This Solo race in tiny, overpowered 6.5m yachts has run for 30 years, and will include up to 80 competitors from around the world. Doing without satellite phones, computers and chart plotters, competitors must rely on core skills to make the crossing.
More details on Simon's campaign can be found at: www.simonmcgoldrick.com
by Ines Knoll
Mermaid Waters, QLD
